Isle of Arran – Scotland Info Guide Sitemap Isle of Arran Arran is an island off the west coast from Ayrshire and is often referred to as Scotland in miniature. In the south of Arran you can find fertile valleys, meadows and prehistoric ruins. The north of Arran is very different, tall mountains and deep valleys where deer rule, combined with very picturesque villages in the North and East on the beautiful shores of the Firth of Clyde. Arran can be reached by ferry from Ardrossan on the mainland to Brodick or from Kintyre, the Claonaig to Lochranza Ferry. Lochranza Lochranza is the ferry terminal for the Claonaig ferry and Lochranza is home of Lochranza Castle which is situated on a promontory in the middle of Loch Ranza. The original building dates to the 13th century when it was owned by the MacSweens. In 1262, King Alexander III granted the castle and its lands to Walter Stewart, the Earl of Menteith. It is believed that Robert the Bruce landed at Lochranza in 1306 on his return form Ireland to claim the Scottish throne.

By 1371, the castle has become the property of Robert II. During the 1490s, James IV used the castle in his campaign against the Macdonalds, the Lord of the Isles. In 1614 it was occupied by James VI and in the 1650s it was used by Cromwell. By 1705, Lochranza Castle had become the property of the Hamilton family who owned other estates on the Isle of Arran. During the 18th century, the castle fell into disuse and disrepair. Arran Distillery When you follow the A841 towards Brodick you first pass the Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd. on the right. Arran Single Malt is a Single Malt Scotch whisky distilled by the Arran Distillery, the only distillery on the Isle of Arran. Arran Distillery was founded in 1995 and is the first legal distillery built on the Isle of Arran in over 150 years. The water for the malt is from Loch na Davie. The distillery of the Isle of Arran was founded by Harold Currie, former director of Chivas.

The spirit produced in the distillery has officially been called “whisky” since the summer of 1998. To celebrate this event, a limited bottling has been released, to restore an ancient tradition. There used to be about fifty distilleries on the island, but most of them were “moonlight” or illegal distilleries. Brodick Brodick is the main village on the Isle of Arran, with tourism providing much of the village’s economic base. Brodick’s population was 621 in the 2001 Census. It is set on the eastern coast of the island, roughly in the central section. It sits below Goat Fell, the tallest mountain on Arran, and in Brodick Bay. The name is derived from Norse roots meaning “Broad Bay”. Renting boats, mini golf, bike hire, fishing, bowling, supermarkets and other shops can be found here. A trip to Holy Island is possible from Brodick (only in the season). The Paddle Steamer Waverley occasionally visits Brodick. Brodick Castle Brodick Castle is located near the village of Brodick and is one of the finest castles in Scotland.

A fortress has been on the site since the fifth century, being destroyed or demolished and rebuilt several times. The present castle originates from 1588. Oliver Cromwell occupied the castle briefly and added some extensions. The Hamilton family acquired the castle shortly after. A picture of the castle appears on the back of twenty pound notes issued by the Royal Bank of Scotland. The Hamiltons made some major changes to the castle and became what it is today. Remarkable fact are the almost 90 heads of deer that were brought to the castle as a hunting trophy and can be found on the wall along the main stairs. In 1957, the Duchess of Montrose (daughter of the 12th Duke of Hamilton) gifted the castle to the nation, in order to avoid substantial inheritance tax liabilities on her death. The castle is now owned by the National Trust of Scotland. The castle is open to the public, as are the grounds. It is also home to the art collection of 18th century author William Beckford of Fonthill whose daughter married the 10th Duke of Hamilton.

One of the rooms is known as ‘Bruce’s Room’ but since the castle was all but destroyed in 1455 and 1544, it is unlikely that Robert the Bruce actually stayed in it. The gardens of Brodick Castle are very nice laid out and should be included in a visit to the castle. The castle is open daily from April to October 11am – 4.30pm. The Country Park is open all year round every day from 9.30am until sunset. Telephone: +44 1770 302202 / Fax: +44 1770 302312. There’s a licensed restaurant with outside terrace and souvenir shop. Goat Fell Goat Fell is the highest point on the Isle of Arran. At 874 metres (2867 ft), it is one of four Corbett’s on the island. The mountain, along with nearby Brodick Castle, is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland.

Due to the popularity of Arran, Goat Fell is a very popular peak and there are many possible routes of ascent, some of which may be combined with visits to the summits of other nearby peaks. The most commonly used route, a constructed path of just under 5 km in length, starts from near Brodick Castle in Cladach. Initially the path leads up through the forested grounds of the castle, passing many rhododendron bushes. Above 300 m above sea level the path leaves the forestry, and the route continues through bare moor land, reaching the summit by way of the east ridge of the mountain. There is a viewpoint table at the summit: on a clear day Ireland may be seen. Holy Island Holy Island is located in the Firth of Clyde off the west coast of central Scotland, inside Lamlash Bay. The island is around 3 kilometre (2 miles) long and around 1 km (around half a mile) wide. Its highest point is the hill Mullach Mor. The island has a long history as sacred site, with a spring said to have healing properties, the hermit cave of 6th Century monk Saint Molaise, and evidence of a 13th Century monastery.

A tour round the Island A trip around Arran is about 90 kilometres and can be done in 4 hours, depending of course on the amount of stops and a visit to Brodick Castle which is a must if you ask me. The castle and gardens are stunning and the view over Brodick Bay is phenomenal. For most travellers Lochranza or Brodick will be the start of the tour. I will start from Lochranza. Lochranza is a beautiful and very quiet little town on the north-west coast of Arran. On the A841 direction Brodick are the Arran Distillers Ltd. From the distillery the road winds its way up in Glen Chalmadale and drops again before the little villages of Mid Sannox and Corrie, tiny but very well maintained with ever changing views of the Firth of Clyde. Sannox is the location of a nine hole golf course. Corrie lies under the island’s highest mountain, Goatfell, and a path provides access to the hillside. From Corrie the road continues towards Brodick where Brodick Castle is located. Brodick is the main town/village on Arran and has shops and local services.

From Brodick the road continues to Margnaheglish which is situated on the beautiful Lamlash Bay. Here Holy Island is clearly visible and a little detour to Clauchlands Point is recommended. Continuing from Lamlash Bay you enter the South part of Arran where places like Knockenkelly and Kiskadale are located near Whiting Bay. The road now continues passing Kildonan Castle and past Bennan Head, the most Southerly tip of Arran. The name Kildonan derives from Saint Donan who is reputedly buried in the village. Early life in the village revolved around Kildonan Castle (sometimes referred to as Kildonan Tower). Once a royal seat, the castle passed hands between various Scottish nobles, before latterly belonging to the Hamilton family in 1544, by which time they were the Earls of Arran. The Tower was later sacked and burnt by the Earl of Sussex around 1558. Ruined remains of the building are still in existence. Close to Lagg and Corriecravie are chambered cairns, Mesolithic monuments from thousands of years ago.

The A841 now turns North towards Blackwaterfoot and Tormore. Tormore is located on the East coast and can be used as a starting point for a walk on the Machrie Moor, a relatively flat moor land and the home of several Standing Stones and Stone Circles. Impressive monuments against the backdrop of Beinn Tarsuinn and Goat Fell, with 874 meters the tallest mountain on Arran and the most easy one to climb, even for non experienced walkers. From the Machrie Moors the B880, or string road, takes you back to Brodick crossing the island from South West to north East. A beautiful drive passing An Tunna and great views of the Goat Fell when weather permits. Arran is a little paradise like island that has a lot to offer. Beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, impressive mountain ranges and lots of interesting history. Further Information: Goat Fell, Isle of Arran - The Glasgow Walking and Hillwalking Club (Glasgow, Scotland) | Meetup The Glasgow Walking and Hillwalking Club Apr 18, 2010 · 8:00 AM Glasgow Central Goat Fell is the highest point on the Isle of Arran.

At 874 metres (2,866 ft), it is one of four Corbetts on the island. The mountain, along with nearby Brodick Castle, is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland. An ascent of the highest peak on the Island is one of Scotland's best known walks and provides a magnificent vantage point of the Firth of Clyde and surrounding countryside. This route begins in Sannox and after scaling Goat Fell, will continue towards Brodick and will include a couple of ridge scrambles. Distance 9 miles Expected length 5 hours Terrain - pathed; rough terrain on ridge Meeting at Glasgow Central (beside Starbucks Coffee unit) 8am Train departing to Ardrossan 8.40am Ferry from Ardossan to Brodick 9.45am Ferry/Train from Brodick to Ardrossan/Glasgow 7.20pm Ferry price £9.70 return Any queries or late cancellations, email via site or call/text[masked] Join or login to comment.

Hit enter to add your reply A former member excellent walk weather bit mixed but great day for all had great laugh after the walk company was brilliant cheers guys 0 · April 20, 2010 Fantastic day out! Even without the view! Great people, lots of fun. Thanks for that Barry! Well done. 0 · April 20, 2010 Fantastic walk, great bunch of people. Sorry I sprinted off the hill to catch the earlier ferry - the banter in the pub sounded like a great laugh! Thanks Barry for organising, really enjoyed it. 0 · April 19, 2010 Lorna C. 1st time with group. Very friendly bunch. Arrangements changed slightly on the day to suit group size & weather conditions. Will definitely along to some other events if dates etc suit. Organiser very good and made sure everyone was comfortable with things. Unfortunately he can't do much about the weather!! Hailstones + sleet - whats that all about??!! Cheers. 0 · April 19, 2010 Mary G. Hi folks, great day out, lots of fun.

Inspired me to go out on my bike after work today...it's NOT a chopper! Special thanks to Barry (good choice), Tracy and friend (for spotting me at the ferry), Alex(are you sure you want to sell your house..) and Andy (great banter!) See you all soon, Mary x 0 · April 19, 2010 A former member Had a brilliant day! lots of lovely people, weather true to Scottish form, just about an entire climate in the space of 4 hours. Can't wait to get ou there again, hopefully with a view next time! thanks to all, chin chin Donald 0 · April 19, 2010 This was my first walk with the group and I will definitely repeat. Great day out, nice people and excellent organization. Thanks to everybody, specially to Barry. Ingrid 0 · April 19, 2010 A former member Excellent day out with brilliant people! Barry was a great group leader and I definitely plan on doing more walks with the group.

0 · April 19, 2010 thanks to barry for organising yesterday was a fab day all round xxx 0 · April 19, 2010 Tracy S. Cracking day out all round. Love Arran and felt a sense of achievement ascending Goat Fell, legs feeling it today. PS: Andy Roy (aka The Chopper), you're outrageous but I love it. Thanks for the laughs, still chuckling at your banter. 0 · April 19, 2010 good laugh, good bunch of people 0 · April 19, 2010 A former member hello thanks 2 every 1 who was there on the day i really enjoyed the company and surroundings this was a quality day out banter was great in pub also thanks 2 one and all for making it a great day out 0 · April 19, 2010 hey all, really enjoyed yesterday and battered on despite the blisters (again!!) had a right laugh in pub and on ferry. choppers the man!!!!! great day great company and i really enjoyed it.

xx 0 · April 19, 2010 A former member hello andy roy here now chopper 2 those who went back 2 pub for those who didnt u will never know wit u missed a good bit a banter and a good laugh this was a quality day out with great company and surroundings well done every 1 0 · April 19, 2010 Barry One of the best, if not the best day we have had out! Great walk, pity about overcast summit, but still a good challenge. Great fun and laughs in pub afterwards. Thanx to all who joined us in helping makie it a super day. 0 · April 19, 2010 Amazing. Shame about the hail and cloud at the summit but that couldn't be helped. Well done for excellent organising, Barry. 0 · April 18, 2010 Ross Goat Fell was my first outing with the Glasgow Walking and Hill Walking Club, let me start by thanking Barry and of you for such a warm welcome to the group. Really was a great day and as to the goings on in the pub afterwards – what a larf.

0 · April 18, 2010 A former member Goat fell.Great dayBarry Thaks to everyone for making it such a brill day out, superb. Even the thick cloud and snow at the top didn't dampen spirits, well done everybody, i havent had such a good laugh for ages. Hope to see you all again very soon. Alex Dunoon. 0 · April 18, 2010 A greaaaaaat day out, rough weather on the top, but stunning views from the way up... Thanks to Barry for the wonderful idea and to all of you for coming, it was a lot of fun!!! 0 · April 18, 2010 A former member Great wee climb and thanks to Barry for organising and to those who never made the pub, what a laugh you all missed banter was 1st class. 0 · April 18, 2010 A former member This was a first Group hike for my wife and I, and what a better place to do it than Isle of Arran, Goat Fell. Met up at the Glasgow Central, had a nice Starbucks, met a few of the group and off we went.

Once we arrived on Arran, it was a nice pace to the base and off we went. We did notice that due to the different levels of walking or fitness the group did elongate, but that was to be expected. Clare and I stayed back with a hiker that was newer to hiking and although we did not reach the summit due to the weather, we enjoyed the hike and look forward to future hikes with the group and returning to Arran as well. Dogs Lovin' it as well! Boat Drinks 0 · April 18, 2010 A former member Barry Barry he's our man, if he can't bring on the rain. no-one can. Seriously though, a fab day with the best company. Even Mr Whippy on hand with ice creams once we reached the summit. Thanks again, our leader. We are not worthy of your efforts. 0 · April 18, 2010 A former member Hello its Emma here.I came for the first time today. I found the group very welcoming and many people I spoke to today had come for the first time which was lovely.Its a group of mixed ability and I think thats a good think in a group of this size.

I enjoyed the day very much and for most of it the weather was good. I need to get my fitness improved but I am working on that! Thanks Barry for organising one of my favourite local walks.I plan to come back on tuesday. Emma Alison M. Great, challenging walk - definitely a real work out at the top part but well worth it. As usual, great company, good chat and of course cadging a lift in a mini bus which meant we made the early ferry made it even better - thanks a lot Barry :) 0 · April 18, 2010 Great weather .... on the way up! Thoroughly enjoyed the fresh air, the surroundings and the craic. Thanks Barry. 0 · April 18, 2010 Will join you at the ferry terminal. First walk with the group, looking forward to it ..... 0 · April 17, 2010 I'll meet you at the ferry terminal 0 · April 17, 2010 I was wondering if somebody knows if there is still snow on Goatfell. Should we take crampons and ice axe?

0 · April 17, 2010 I'll meet you at the ferry terminal 0 · April 17, 2010 Hi Barry. Should we book tickets in advance or any chance to get a group discount once we get to the station on Sunday? Cheers. 0 · April 12, 2010 Brodick to Sannox by bus 0 · April 2, 2010 Ferry price £9.70 return. There will be return train tickets from Glasgow Central on top of this. 0 · April 2, 2010 Contact We're about: This covers: equipment, admin, coaches, social events etc, thanks for your support Payment is accepted using: PayPal Cash or check - “You may wish to give a donation no matter how small to your event leader when out on an event. Any thing from £1 upwards, just what ever you can afford. Thanks” Refunds are not offered for this Meetup. Close × A very warm welcome to all our new members! Hope you're all ready for a busy year ahead in the great Scottish outdoors. This is a child and dog friendly club (on suitable walks/climbs).

Dogs must be kept under control by owners and kept on leash where applicable. Please take a moment to read the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, the short cut is on the left side of this page PLEASE READ RSVP ETIQUETTE AND CLUB GUIDELINES on the "Pages" tab above. ( ). and here to see what we get up to Organisers Organisers are volunteers who give up their own time to act as a contact point. Organisers do not accept responsibility for others or for instructing them. These are NOT guided walks run by qualified instructors. Organiser, he or she is only helping by sharing his or her experience, and may not be qualified or regarded as a 'technical expert' in any way. Any less-experienced members of the club accompanying this more-experienced member must be aware that they take any advice on this basis, and that the onus of responsibility for deciding whether or not to rely on any such advice lies with the less-experienced member. Venues Organisers will provide a meeting place, a time, and a description of the route based on local knowledge and experience. Often a reference is made to “walk highlands” or other web sites where more detailed descriptions are available.

Please pay particular attention to the "Grade" of walk, C (least strenuous) to A (most difficult). Donations As of late 2015, it is no longer a pre-requisite that members be requested to pay for walks. All donations made to the club shall be voluntary and should be handed to any of the organisers. Cancellation/Changes Walks may be cancelled or changed due to weather or other factors. Members should check walk details before departure . Responsibility/liability Members attend at their own risk, and are responsible for their own decisions and safety. Members should adopt the policy of “self reliance”. Medical conditions, fitness level, weather conditions, ground conditions can all impact on members’ ability and stamina. Know your limitations! It is important to come properly equipped and we follow the Mountaineering Council of Scotland's equipment recommendations, which, can be read on this link ( LINK CLICK HERE ) Climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement." New/Inexperienced members As a club we encourage members to participate in suitable walks.

If unsure about suitability, simply contact the organiser for advice. Organisers and other experienced walkers are generally happy to assist new/inexperienced walkers when time and conditions permit, but do not take this for granted. Fun and Safety This club is about having fun while enjoying walks. Members enjoy each others company while achieving their goals, whether it is a Munro or a coastal walk. But please do not underestimate Scottish weather or conditions. If conditions deteriorate, stay as a group, work as a group, and come home safely with a smile. Winter Walks Walking in winter conditions is deemed to be “mountaineering”. Please read all the above again and ensure you are prepared. Winter walks can also be the most rewarding. Getting the Most We encourage our members to join The Mountaineering Council of Scotland who provide a range of instruction for mountaineering, hill walking and safety, to help you get even more from your chosen mountain activity. Membership has many additional benefits. NB. Any accident, injury or illness contracted on any of the walks or at social events to persons or animals is not the responsibility of The Glasgow Walking and Hillwalking Club. Please make sure that you are adequately prepared and dressed for the walks or climbs.

If you are unsure about your level of fitness, please check with your GP before coming on the walks. Goat Fell (Trad. Scottish) - Free Flute Sheet Music | flutetunes.com Free Flute Sheet Music There are no recordings for this tune yet. Submit yours ! Thursday 10 September 2015 Tune of the Day: Goat Fell Traditional Scottish strathspey This Scottish strathspey appears in the third volume of James Kerr's Merry Melodies collection, published around 1880. Goat Fell is the highest point on the Isle of Arran, the largest island in the Firth of Clyde, Scotland. The name is believed to mean either ‛Mountain of Wind’ or ‛Goat Mountain’. Other Tunes in the same Categories Celtic Music: Gentle James Hikes Goat Fell, Isle of Arran - YouTube Gentle James Hikes Goat Fell, Isle of Arran Want to watch this again later? Sign in to add this video to a playlist. Need to report the video? Sign in to report inappropriate content. The interactive transcript could not be loaded. Loading... Rating is available when the video has been rented. This feature is not available right now. Please try again later.

Published on Apr 26, 2015 Another Scottish adventure hiking the highest point on the Isle of Arran, Goat Fell. This 2,886ft climb is not just a stroll. It will challenge you, make you work up a sweat! But the views from the top are totally worth it:) Category Goat Fell : definition of Goat Fell and synonyms of Goat Fell (English) Topo map OS Explorer 361; Landrangers 62, 69 Goat Fell (marked as Goatfell by the Ordnance Survey ; Scottish Gaelic : Gaoda Bheinn) is the highest point on the Isle of Arran . At 874 metres (2,866 ft), it is one of four Corbetts on the island. The mountain, along with nearby Brodick Castle , is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland . The name is believed to mean either 'Mountain of Wind' (from the Gaelic gaoth) or 'Goat Mountain' (from the Norse geita).

Ascent Due to the popularity of "Scotland in miniature" (Arran), Goat Fell is a very popular peak and there are many possible routes of ascent, some of which may be combined with visits to the summits of other nearby peaks. The most commonly used route, a constructed path of just under 5 km in length, starts from near Brodick Castle in Cladach . Initially the path leads up through the forested grounds of the castle, passing many rhododendron bushes. Above 300 m above sea level the path leaves the forestry, and the route continues through bare moorland , reaching the summit by way of the east ridge of the mountain. There is a viewpoint table at the summit: on a clear day Ireland may be seen. Goatfell from Glen Sannox. An alternative shorter and steeper route comes up from the village of Corrie . This route joins the main path on the east ridge. Goat Fell may also be climbed from the north, where it is linked by a ridge to the subsidiary top of North Goatfell, a point from which three ridges radiate.

In addition to the ridge leading south to the main summit, there is a ridge heading northeast, providing some very easy scrambling as it passes over Cìoch na h-Òighe (the Young Maiden's Breast ). Finally, the western ridge drops down to a bealach known as The Saddle, before climbing again towards the summit of Cìr Mhòr . The right-of-way between Glen Rosa and Glen Sannox passes over The Saddle. It is also the historical scene of a murder that caused national controversy in July 1889 when John Laurie was convicted of killing Edwin Rose . [1] References 25 things to do on and around the Scottish islands - The Scotsman 25 things to do on and around the Scottish islands View from Barra. Picture: TSPL Lindsey Johnstone Have your say Booking a package holiday to the sun is easy and quick but this could be the year that you discover what is on your doorstep? As our list below proves there’s plenty to be discovered on the natural gems that are Scotland’s islands. 1. The fact that people come to Skye from across the globe to visit The Three Chimneys restaurant says it all.

New York Times restaurant critic Frank Bruni named it among his top five favourites in the world, and with a menu as heavy on local fish and seafood as you’d hope – including cod, monkfish and mullet, lobster, crab, scallops and prawns – plus wood pigeon, beef, venison and Scottish cheeses, and almost all the ingredients sourced on Skye itself, a meal here is a must on a trip to the island. Lamlash, Arran, with Goat Fell in the distance. Picture: TSPL 2. Arran Aromatics luxe beauty products are inspired by and made on the island – at Home Farm, once the dairy farm for Brodick Castle – using essential oils and local ingredients and decanted into blue glass bottles inspired by apothecary relics seen on a trip to the Arran Museum. Swing by to stock up and you’ll also find handmade candles and traditional coal tar soaps wrapped in brown paper. 3.

The An Lanntair arts centre on Lewis plays host to gigs, theatre, art exhibitions, movie showings and events including the Hebridean Book Festival and Hebridean Celtic Festival, with an emphasis on the island’s Gaelic cultural heritage, and also has a café, restaurant and bar open till the small hours. Upcoming events include The Stornoway Singers, alt-country duo My Darling Clementine and an exhibition of painter Mary Morrison’s work inspired by the Atlantic archipelago and a talk from the artist. 4. A tour of Islay’s whisky distilleries should be a day to remember, although you may well not. Known as the greatest of the whisky-making islands, Islay is only 25 miles long but has no fewer than eight working distilleries – Caol Ila, Bunnahabhain, Ardbeg, Laphroaig, Bruichladdich, Lagavulin, Bowmore and Kilchoman.

It is believed that Irish monks introduced the art of distillation to the island in the fourteenth century, prompted by its optimum whisky-making environment – excellent conditions for barley growing and a peat-covered terrain and exposure to sea spray that give the native single malts their famous smoky flavours with salty notes. 5. Fancy staying in your very own five-star spa? Whitefalls Spa Lodges on the Isle of Lewis, named after the nearby Easa Gheal waterfall, are luxury lodges each with its own private spa boasting a Riverbath with chromatherapy, walk-in rainfall shower, fitness equipment and an infra-red sauna, plus the option to pre-book treatments including reflexology, hot stone massage and aromatherapy. The self-catering lodges have wall-to-wall picture windows to fill the rooms with views of sea and sky and can be stocked with Champagne, chocolates, flowers and fruit on request. St. Kilda 6. Follow in the footsteps of Chanel, Vivienne Westwood, Nike, Céline and the QE2 and have something made to order using fabric you’ve chosen from Harris Tweed Hebrides .

Wander the iconic textile brand’s shop and warehouse in Tarbert on Harris and give yourself over to the expert eyes of the staff on hand to help you choose from the floor-to-ceiling rolls of every colour, pattern and texture of tweed imaginable. Or if you prefer instant gratification, hit the shop floor and choose from the cornucopia of Harris Tweed items on offer – everything from jackets to iPad covers. 7. Eat oysters at Loch Fyne Oyster Bar at Clachan Farm at the mouth of the eponymous loch, founded in 1978 by a local landowner and a marine biologist and now the global gold-standard – you’ll find Loch Fyne Oysters in five-star hotels from New York to Hong Kong and at 30,000 feet in the first-class cabins of British Airways and Cathay Pacific. If oysters aren’t your thing you’ll also find langoustines, smoked salmon, scallops and mussels on the menu and, going on past form, might even spot some celebrities over the seafood. 8.

Take surfing lessons in Tiree , the most westerly of the Inner Hebrides and the Scottish island blessed with the best conditions on which to hang ten – its flat terrain and position out on the Atlantic Ocean make it windy, while the Gulf Stream keeps the waters warm. Low rainfall and among the highest hours of sunshine in the UK plus crystal waters, big waves and white sands further enable the Californian fantasy and there are several surf schools on the island catering for even absolute beginners, of any age. 9. The Callanish Standing Stones on the west coast of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides were constructed between 2900 and 2600 BC and the layout is said to resemble a Celtic cross and to have been a prehistoric lunar observatory, while local folklore says that giants who lived on the island and refused to be converted to Christianity were turned into the stones as punishment. The stones have made appearances in Disney Pixar’s Brave and on the cover of the Ultravox album Lament, and gave Dutch death metal band Callenish Circle their name. Tiree 10.

The uninhabited archipelago of St Kilda lies 41 miles west of Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides and is the most remote part of the British Isles and has the highest of its sea cliffs. The entire population of 36 was evacuated in 1930 at their own request, after crop failures and the depletion of the island’s population by the First World War and a bout of influenza made life there impossible. The departing islanders left an open Bible and a small pile of oats in each house, locked all the doors and at 7am boarded the ship that would take them to their new homes at Morvern on the mainland. The island is now a seabird breeding colony and one of Scotland’s five Unesco World Heritage Sites, although its lost world lives on not just in the poignant sight of its abandoned houses, but in Gaelic-language opera St Kilda: A European Opera, various short films and documentaries and even a Runrig song – Edge of the World. Boat trips to St Kilda depart from Uig and Leverburgh and you can camp on the island (with permission from the National Trust for Scotland) for up to five nights. 11.

The legendarily raucous Mull Sevens are known as “the world’s most sociable,” which, as anyone who’s been to Hong Kong for the rugby will know, is quite an accolade. Named by The Scotsman as the second-best sevens tournament in the world after Melrose, and ahead of Hong Kong, Twickenham and Jedforest, it can also lay a claim to being the most enlightened, being the first to include women’s teams. The seemingly unlikely history of rugby on Mull was borne of its previous lack of a secondary school, meaning local children attended mainland high schools and brought back the rugby they played there back with them. The 29th Mull Sevens took place on 24 May, so while that ship may have sailed this year, the 30th anniversary in 2015 will be one not to be missed. 12. It’s well known that the Isle of Arran is Scotland’s landscape in miniature, making Goat Fell its Ben Nevis. The highest point on the island, it’s a climb of 2,876 ft but the most popular route is just three miles in length and on a clear day you can see all the way to Ireland.

The mountain also provided Arran with its grisliest headlines, when in 1889 the body of London clerk Edwin Rose was discovered on it . He was last seen alive on the mountain two weeks prior, and the day after the sighting his climbing companion John Watson Laurie was spotted wearing Rose’s clothes. Police found Laurie hiding in a Lanarkshire quarry with an open razor in his hands saying he had intended to kill himself that night. The killing had captured the public imagination and police had to impose order on the throngs around news vendors when the news came that Laurie had been found guilty of murder. A date for his hanging was fixed but the closeness of the jury’s verdict saw legal authorities commute the sentence to life imprisonment – although it was suggested by some English newspapers that Laurie escaped the noose because his victim was an Englishman. 13. The holy island of Iona is a place of pilgrimage, so a visit to St Columba’s shrine is only right. St Columba himself arrived from Ireland in AD563 and founded the monastery that bears his name, which attracted pilgrims from the 7th century onwards.

All that remains of it now is the vallum that enclosed it and the “hill of the abbot” where Columba is believed to have died in 597. The tiny stone chapel that is St Columba’s shrine dates from the 9th century, and sits by the entrance to the 13th century Iona Abbey – where kings including Macbeth and his victim Duncan are buried – that now stands on the site of the original church. Callanish 14. When not inventing malted drinks, Sir James Horlick was planting rhododendrons at Achamore Gardens on the Isle of Gigha – 54 acres filled with a riotous rainbow of rare and exotic plants that flourish thanks to the island’s mild microclimate, sheltered as it is from the Atlantic in the Inner Hebrides. Peacocks wander among azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons and species from as far afield as Australia, New Zealand and the Andes including Montezuma pines and Southern rātā – and so can you, a mere 20-minute ferry ride from Kintyre.

Achamore House has another claim to fame; Charles Rennie Mackintosh was a trainee at the Glasgow architectural firm which built the manor house – see if you can spot any of his trademarks. 15. Go back in time at the Bute promenade , a classic Victorian seafront which saw a golden era of tourism in the 19th century thanks to its easy accessibility from the Central Belt. Bute is renowned for its grand architecture, most notably the Neo-Gothic Mount Stuart House, which dates from 1877, contains what was the world’s first indoor heated pool, was the first house in Scotland to be lit by electricity and in 2003 was the setting for Stella McCartney’s wedding. The 1938 Art Deco Rothesay Pavilion houses a concert hall while the Winter Gardens by Rothesay pier, built in 1924, are now home to the tourist centre and a cinema. Bute must also be one of the few places in which a trip to a public toilet is on the tourist trail – the perfectly preserved Victorian Toilets, built in 1899, are a few steps from the pier and a must-see. 16.

Arran has emerged as a foodie destination, boasting a whisky distillery , a brewery , a creamery , a chocolatier , a smokehouse, three cheese producers and an island baker specialising in oatcakes. Take your taste buds on a tour, making sure to hit The Island Cheese Shop at Home Farm where you’ll find Crowdie, Arran Camembert and an Arran Blue which won Gold at the World Cheese Awards (we also recommend the cheddar with crushed stem ginger); the Arran Chocolate Factory where you can watch the chocolates being made by hand before buying and inhaling them; Creelers Smokehouse for fish dried with sea salt and dark molasses sugar and smoked over Arran Scotch Pine and wood shavings from old whisky barrels, and craft bakery Wooleys of Arran for world-famous oatcakes fired in antique ovens. 17. Walk on Eigg shells on the most populous of the Small Isles of the Inner Hebrides. A geological gem, the island is as a result a shell collector’s paradise, particularly at Galmisdale Bay , while the Singing Sands is a beach that has to be heard to be believed – the pure quartz sands emit musical squeaks when crushed underfoot. 18.

Go on safari in Barra – with a snorkel. The island’s white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters are home to a diverse range of sea life which you can explore on an underwater expedition with Barra Snorkel Safari , who will guide you over seabeds and reefs in deep or shallow waters, even giving you the chance to try and catch some razor clams for your dinner. 19. With 15 per cent of the UK’s freshwater surface area on the islands, the Uists are acknowledged among the best wild trout and salmon fishing spots in Europe. North Uist Estate and South Uist Estate manage almost all the lochs and rivers. Both offer great sea trout fishing, in estuaries, lochs and rivers. The 800 lochs of South Uist and Benbecula offer the best wild brown trout and sea trout fishing while North Uist Estate is one of the few places in Scotland that provides sea trout, salmon and brown trout fishing. 20. The Scottish islands are a photographer/postcard seller’s dream and chances are if you’re planning a trip to any of them, you’ve ogled images of sunsets over white sands and wildlife that could star in an inspirational meme.

Just think how much more satisfying an experience this would be if you’d taken the pictures yourself, and then book a photography course – the perfect way to see the islands and bring home the best souvenirs. Try Islandscape Photography on Mull and Tom Mackie Images on Lewis and Harris for starters. 21. Horse riding on the beach is a bucket list cliché for good reason – tick it off yours on the Kintyre peninsula, which is well-known for offering riding opportunities for novices and equestrians alike, as well as for Paul McCartney’s favourite beach (which you’ll find at Saddell – no pun for the pony trekkers intended – on the eastern side). Barrglen Equitation Centre , one of many on Kintyre, has been going since 1997, is set on a 5,000-acre sheep farm, and offers lessons for all levels, holidays and even B’n’B for horses if you want to bring your own. 22. Read (or watch) Whisky Galore then have a dram in the real-life pub that reaped the benefits of the islanders’ legendary raid – The Politician on Eriskay , which is also the only pub on the island.

The SS Politician ran aground off the island in 1941, depositing its cargo of whisky and thus providing the islanders who raided the wreck with a free supply in the midst of wartime rationing, when they had almost run out of the water of life. Compton Mackenzie’s novel Whisky Galore based on the incident, and adapted into the Ealing Comedy of the same name, is also a good examination of Hebridean life and includes a glossary of Gaelic terms used and a guide to pronunciation and the local accent. 23. Sign up for sailing school and experience the islands from the water. Learn the skills of the high seas, spot dolphins along the way and drop anchor for lunch. Sail Scotland has information on Royal Yachting Association-accredited sailing classes – and yacht charter if that sounds like a little too much effort – around Scotland, including Oban, Badachro, Portree and Ardvasar on Skye. 24.

Visit the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse on the most northerly point of the most northerly of the Hebridean islands and face the wrath of the Atlantic at what feels like the edge of the world and is, as such unsurprisingly, officially the windiest place in the UK. The 37-metre red brick lighthouse, with 168 steps to the top of the tower, was built in 1862 by David and Thomas Stevenson – father of one Robert Louis. The light was lit with paraffin until 1976, when it went electric, and is fixed, with the lens revolving around it to give the flashing effect every five seconds. 25. The Scottish islands boast beaches that are among the most beautiful you will see anywhere and the west and south of Harris’s are the best of the best – the swathes of white sand lapped by jade waters at Scarista, Borve, Horgabost, Seilebost and Luskentyre will make you feel like you’ve overshot the UK and ended up in the Caribbean.

Question: Goat Fell is the highest point on which Scottish island?
Answer: Arran